Santa Monica Woman’s Terrifying Encounter with Intruder Shocks Community

A disturbing incident unfolded in Santa Monica when a woman awoke to find a homeless man fondling her and exposing himself. The Santa Monica Police Department reported that 34-year-old Anthony Townson had broken into the woman’s residence on 7th street around 4 a.m. on a Saturday.

The victim recounted to the police that she was startled awake by Townson rubbing her leg while he was exposing himself. Thankfully, she managed to escape and contact the authorities as the intruder fled.

Law enforcement quickly apprehended Townson nearby. Upon investigation, it was revealed that he had entered the home through a second-floor patio sliding door that had been left unlocked.

The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office has since filed felony charges against Townson, including residential burglary and indecent exposure during unlawful entry.

Townson’s criminal record is extensive, with previous offenses including trespassing, battery on a police officer, possession of drug paraphernalia, loitering on private property, and possession of a controlled substance.

This incident adds to the growing concern among Santa Monica residents regarding crimes committed by homeless individuals. In May, a jogger was assaulted on the beach when a homeless man allegedly grabbed her by the ponytail and attempted to drag her into public bathrooms before bystanders intervened. More recently, in August, another man reportedly climbed on top of a female sunbather and sexually assaulted her.

City officials are under increasing pressure to address these issues. Santa Monica Mayor Phil Brock expressed his frustration to KTLA-TV, stating,

“We’re not getting the help we need, we’re severely impacted in an 8.3 square mile city with almost a thousand homeless people on our streets. I need help!”

Santa Monica, known for its affluence and with a median home price of $1.7 million, is grappling with these alarming incidents, highlighting the urgent need for intervention and support from higher levels of government.

Watch a local news report about the incident below:

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